Are you a fan of creamy, spicy, and flavorful Indian cuisine? Then you’re in for a treat! Palak paneer, a popular North Indian dish made with spinach puree and paneer (Indian cheese), is a staple in many households. But why settle for just one recipe when you can have 20? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of palak paneer, exploring different variations that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic recipes to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Palak Paneer with Creamy Spinach Sauce
This rich and creamy Indian dish is a staple of North Indian cuisine, featuring tender paneer (Indian cheese) cooked in a flavorful spinach sauce. A classic comfort food that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 250ml heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and butter. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the sauce.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until paneer is fully coated.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Palak Paneer with Green Chilies
This creamy spinach curry gets a kick from the addition of green chilies, perfect for those who like a little heat in their dishes. With paneer and palak (spinach) as the main ingredients, this recipe is a delicious twist on traditional Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3-4 green chilies, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the chopped green chilies and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the spinach leaves, cumin powder, salt, and water. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer the mixture for 10-12 minutes or until the spinach is fully cooked.
7. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the paneer is coated with the spinach sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer with Garlic and Ginger Twist
A creamy spinach curry gets a flavorful boost from the addition of garlic and ginger, served with tender paneer cubes.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the spinach leaves, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the spinach mixture.
5. Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated in the curry sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Palak Paneer with Cashew Cream Sauce
Palak paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines creamy spinach curry with soft, creamy paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe adds an extra layer of richness and flavor with a cashew cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Blend spinach leaves, onion, garlic, and cashews into a smooth puree.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin and garam masala powders; sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in the spinach-cashew puree and season with salt.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream or half-and-half. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Coconut Milk Infusion
Palak Paneer with Coconut Milk Infusion: A Creamy Indian Delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups spinach puree (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the spinach puree, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the spinach mixture.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paneer is fully coated and creamy.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy your Palak Paneer with Coconut Milk Infusion!
Palak Paneer with Fenugreek Leaves
A creamy spinach curry gets a boost of nutrition and flavor with the addition of fenugreek leaves, making this Palak Paneer recipe a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 1 bunch fenugreek leaves, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cumin, coriander, and garam masala powder; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add spinach leaves and cooked fenugreek leaves; stir well.
6. Add paneer cubes, salt, and water. Stir until paneer is fully coated with the spinach mixture.
7. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Palak Paneer with Mustard Seeds Tempering
A creamy spinach curry made with paneer (Indian cheese) and a hint of mustard seeds, Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor with the traditional tempering process.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cups palak puree (spinach puree)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add mustard seeds and let them pop for a few seconds.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent.
5. Add garlic, palak puree, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently.
7. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Tomato and Onion Base
A creamy and flavorful Indian dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the vibrant flavors of spinach, tomato, and onion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or ghee in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they are soft and pulpy.
4. Add minced garlic, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves and mix until they wilt.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the sauce.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is coated with the sauce.
8. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer with Cream and Butter Finish
A creamy and rich Indian spinach curry made with paneer (Indian cheese), palak (spinach), and a hint of nutmeg, finished with a luxurious cream and butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
– 1/2 cup cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Blend spinach, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and nutmeg into a smooth paste.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and cook until golden brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the spinach puree to the pan and stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in cream and butter until fully incorporated. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Paneer Cubes Pan-Fried
A creamy spinach curry paired with crispy paneer cubes, Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that’s sure to delight. This recipe combines the flavors of palak (spinach) and paneer (Indian cheese) in a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) condensed cream of spinach soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pan-fry the paneer cubes in a little oil until golden brown and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and coriander powder. Saute until the onions are translucent.
4. Pour in the condensed cream of spinach soup and stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Stir in some salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the pan-fried paneer cubes with the creamy palak curry.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Roasted Spinach
A creamy and nutritious twist on the classic Indian dish Palak Paneer, this recipe adds a burst of flavor from roasted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roast the spinach leaves with salt and a drizzle of oil for 10-12 minutes, until wilted.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the roasted spinach, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well.
4. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
5. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Stir in butter until melted. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer with Fresh Cream and Spices
Palak paneer, a popular Indian dish, is a creamy and flavorful curry made with spinach puree, paneer (Indian cheese), and aromatic spices. This recipe uses fresh cream to add an extra layer of richness.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cubed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup fresh cream
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, blend spinach leaves, onion, garlic, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add the spinach puree to the pan and stir well.
4. Pour in the fresh cream and stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of garam masala.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Whole Wheat Roti
A classic Indian combination of creamy spinach curry and crispy whole wheat roti, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups palak (spinach) puree
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 4-6 whole wheat rotis
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee/oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add garlic, palak puree, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the spinach is fully coated with the flavors.
7. Serve hot with whole wheat rotis.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Jeera Rice Pairing
Experience the perfect blend of creamy spinach and Indian cheese with a flavorful jeera rice accompaniment.
Ingredients:
For Palak Paneer:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups palak puree (spinach puree)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
For Jeera Rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon jeera (cumin seeds)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a pan, heat butter or oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the paneer cubes, palak puree, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve the Palak Paneer over Jeera Rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Naan Bread Side
Palak Paneer with Naan Bread Side: A Creamy Spinach Curry Served with Fluffy Indian Flatbread
Ingredients:
For Palak Paneer:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cream
For Naan Bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Butter, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree spinach, onion, garlic, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder with some water to form a smooth paste.
2. Cook paneer in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a pan, melt butter and add the spinach paste. Cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Add cream and cooked paneer. Season with salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. For Naan Bread, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into 2-3 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle. Brush with butter. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Palak Paneer with Tandoori Flavors
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this creamy Palak Paneer recipe, infused with the bold and aromatic spices of tandoori cooking.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups spinach puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin and coriander powders; sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add the paneer cubes; cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the spinach puree, heavy cream, garam masala powder, salt, and cooked paneer to a blender.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Mint and Coriander Garnish
Savor the creamy goodness of Palak Paneer, a popular Indian spinach curry, elevated by the freshness of mint and coriander.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into cubes
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh mint leaves and coriander powder, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree spinach, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add paneer cubes and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
3. Pour the spinach mixture over the paneer and stir to combine.
4. Add heavy cream or half-and-half and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of coriander powder.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Caramelized Onions
A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the sweetness of caramelized onions, all wrapped in a vibrant spinach sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine spinach leaves and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add paneer cubes to the pan and stir to combine with the caramelized onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the paneer is lightly browned.
4. Pour in the blended spinach sauce and add cumin powder. Stir well to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Paneer with Yogurt and Spices
Palak paneer, a popular Indian dish, gets a creamy twist with the addition of yogurt and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into cubes
– 2 cups palak leaves (spinach)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 250ml plain yogurt
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the palak leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Add the paneer cubes, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt and salt.
7. Pour the yogurt mixture into the pan and stir well to combine.
8. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Serve hot with naan bread, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with a Hint of Lemon Zest
A creamy spinach curry infused with the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) and a burst of citrusy freshness from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Add paneer cubes and lemon juice; stir well to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of India with these 20 delicious Palak Paneer recipes! From classic creamy sauces to spicy twists and flavorful garnishes, there’s something for every palate. Get inspired by unique variations like Spicy Palak Paneer with Green Chilies or Palak Paneer with Cashew Cream Sauce. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
